Prayagraj: On Friday, the third day of the Deepawali Crafts Fair organized by the North Central Zone Cultural Center, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, the colorful presentations of cultural programs mesmerized the audience. The program was inaugurated with the lighting of lamps by the chief guest Dr. Ashutosh Kumar Singh (Head of Department, State University, Prayagraj) and Center Director Sudesh Sharma. While on one hand a crowd of women visitors is gathering for shopping in the crafts fair, on the other hand, as the evening approaches, a large number of people are gathering to watch the performances of the artists on the cultural stage. The food stalls are also the center of attraction.
The cultural evening began with a Birha song performed by Savita Sagar Maurya and her group, which enlivened the atmosphere. Mithilesh Rahi and his group then gave a powerful rendition of Nirgun Bhajans. Their folk songs, such as “Jhulanwa Jhuli He,” “Radhe Radhe Kahne Ki Aadat Ho Gayi Hai,” and “Baada Nik Lagela Balamua Ke Gaon Re,” received thunderous applause from the audience.
After this, Chhath songs were presented, in which the audience thoroughly enjoyed songs like “Kalpeli Bijli Tivadya Ho Ugi He Din Nath” and “Hariyar Hariyar Lemon Nariyalwa Hariyar Kelva Pat Ho”. Kapil Dubey and his team from Madhya Pradesh enthralled the audience with a captivating performance of the traditional Badhai dance, while Katwaru Ram and his team from Sonbhadra enthralled the audience with their Karma dance. Dr. Abha Madhur conducted the program effectively. The cultural festivities at the fair are adding new flavors each day, and the enthusiastic participation of the audience makes it even more special.